Human

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a raw picture of internal struggle, grappling with self-criticism and the pressure of a seemingly inauthentic digital world. The narrator questions their own nature, asking "Am I diseased" and feeling "hypocritical" because they can't always embody their desired self. This internal conflict is amplified by a sense of hiding flaws and a weariness with trying to conform to a superficial online existence where originality feels lost. The repeated phrase "Underneath are the flaws I hide" underscores this ongoing battle with perceived imperfections. The central tension lies in the narrator's self-worth versus their outward presentation, coupled with a profound fear of aging and isolation. They acknowledge their value is "way more than I show," yet they invite blame and scrutiny, repeatedly stating "Put the blame on me." This self-flagellation seems to stem from a deep-seated insecurity, further complicated by the "clinical" and "cynical" nature of their life's "ups and downs." The fear of aging and the need for "medicine to ease my mind" highlight a vulnerability that contrasts with the desire to be seen as strong. A striking element is the recurring motif of "mistakes" and being "messed up," presented not as failures but as inherent parts of being human. The chorus hammers this home: "'Cause I am only / Human to the bone." This acceptance, though hard-won, is framed as a source of solace. The bridge offers a glimmer of hope, with "Bruised but not breaking" and "Fears that I've shaken," suggesting a gradual process of self-discovery and resilience. The repetition of "up, up, up, up" signifies a slow but steady ascent towards self-acceptance and peace. Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they articulate a universal human experience: the messy, imperfect reality of existence. The power comes from the honest admission of flaws and anxieties, balanced by a gentle, repeated affirmation that "it's okay." This acceptance of imperfection, particularly the acknowledgment that "everybody's messed up sometimes," offers a cathartic release, making the narrator's journey feel relatable and their eventual, tentative embrace of their humanity profoundly moving.